Freshly minted grad Emilia Noble arrives in Costa Rica to teach English in the tropical community of Pacifica. Its carefree, pura vida lifestyle is a welcome contrast to her dark and wintry origins. Tossing caution aside like an old winter coat, she plunges headfirst into an exotic cocktail of sensory pleasure.

Diego is a local whose surfer body and cool detachment make Lia buzz with a long-lost thrill. Fascinated by her new environment, she can’t help but wonder about the moody inner workings of the boy with triceps like Wolverine and a grimace to match.

Diego seems to have no problem ignoring Lia, though. Caught up in his family’s conflicted attitude toward foreigners, he notices her only when it’s convenient. But as Lia thrives in her new surroundings, Diego might just find reason enough to defy his embattled, insular father. When north and south are mixed together, the results are intoxicating.

“Rich with description and with interesting characters, [Lessons in Pure Life] was a book I was happy to spend an afternoon with.” – Jilly, Read-Love-Blog

“I can feel the salt on my skin and smell the hints of coconut on the breeze. It was light despite being heavy and was the perfect story to fantasize reading upon my favorite stretch of beach.” – Beth, Literati Literature Lovers

“I really liked Lia. She was a strong female, she wasn’t vulnerable and whiny but she also wasn’t all up in your face ‘I’m a bad ass’ kind of strong, she was just a strong leading character in all aspects.… She was hilarious too! Lessons in Pure Life was fun, sweet, romantic and had its sexy moments too. It’s a good get-away book, the perfect escape book. Audrey’s writing is smart and funny and her characters are intriguing and interesting…. One question though? Is there more? I hope so! I need a lot more of Diego Valverde.” – Jade, Red Hot Reads